Originally founded in the 7th century, the Mon people gave Lampang its name and ancient city fortifications. Today, the large city is known for its charming horse-drawn carriages and serene atmosphere. Due to its proximity to Chiang Mai, the city makes for an excellent pit stop for a day of exploring or a couple of days of relaxation.
Wat Phra That Lampang Luang
A little bit outside of Lampang is where you will find one of Thailand’s most spectacular wats. Originally built in the 15th century, Wat Phra That Lampang Luang is believed to be one of the country’s oldest wooden buildings. It features a Lanna-style chedi and an impressive triple-tiered rooftop.
Thai Elephant Conservation Center
En route to Chiang Mai, you’ll find this safe haven considered by many to be the best place to interact with elephants. Less touristy than most Northern Thailand centers, this Thai Elephant Conservation Center includes a hospital and has been praised for its efforts to rehabilitate domesticated elephants. You can spend some time here (up to three days) and take a course to get to know these gentle creatures even better.
Walking Street Market
Just as any other traditional Thai town, Lampang hosts its own walking street market on weekends. This is a great opportunity to mingle with locals, buy some local produce and choose a few traditional souvenirs to bring back home.
Wat Pa Fang
Another of Lampang’s many exquisite temples, Wat Pa Fang was originally built by the Burmese during the reign of King Rama IV. Its main attraction is a great glittering chedi housing a holy relic that was brought over from Myanmar in the early 20th century.
Horse-Drawn Carriage Ride
Lampang is most famous for its horse-drawn carriages that have been the locals’ traditional mode of transportation. It’s no surprise, then, that today these have become one of the city’s most popular attractions. Hop on a carriage anywhere around town and let the locals guide you through Lampang.
Wat Chedi Sao
Wat Chedi Sao literally translates to “the temple of twenty chedis” and a quick look at the 20 stupas on the site will make you understand the origin of the temple’s name. Legend says that about 2,000 years ago, two Indian monks came here to spread Buddha’s teachings. A local prince was very impressed and asked ten hairs from each of the monks. He then built Wat Chedi Sao, placing one hair in each stupa.
Chae Son National Park
This compact natural park is yet to be discovered by the masses. So, if you like to avoid the tourist crowds, now is the perfect time to visit. Chae Son National Park features a number of splendid attractions including a waterfall of the same name, ancient caves and relaxing hot springs.
Wat Phra Kaeo Don Tao
Photo by david goetz
Once the home of the Emerald Buddha (it now sits on a temple of the same name in Bangkok), this centuries-old temple is located on Phra Keo Road. It features an impressive chedi allegedly containing some of Buddha’s hair, an ancient Vihan housing a reclining Buddha statue and a museum exhibiting a collection of relics and artifacts of the Lanna era.
Related: Best Places to go in Thailand
